How to use intermittent catheter, step by step guide

Intermittent Catheter insertion is an important medical procedure that helps patients manage urination problems, especially when surgery, illness, or injury prevents normal urination.. Below are the detailed steps for catheter insertion and precautions to take during the process: In this article we will explain how to use intermittent catheter.

How to use intermittent catheter

I. Preparation Stage

1. Preparation of supplies : Ensure that all necessary items are available, including disposable sterile urinary catheters, disinfectants (such as iodine solution , sterile cotton balls), lubricants (such as sterile paraffin oil or water-based lubricants), hemostatic forceps, sterile gloves, urine bags, drainage bag fixation frames , etc.
2. Patient preparation : The patient lies supine with legs flexed and slightly apart to expose the perineum. For male patients, ensure the penis is in a relaxed position. For female patients, separate the labia minora to expose the urethral opening.
3. Medical staff preparation : Clean and disinfect hands, wear sterile gloves, and ensure sterility during the procedure.
4. Environmental preparation : Ensure the operating environment is clean and quiet, and prepare necessary first aid equipment and medicines to deal with possible emergencies.

II. Disinfection Stage

1. Perineal disinfection : Use a sterile cotton ball soaked in disinfectant such as iodine solution to thoroughly disinfect the patient’s perineum, especially the area around the urethral opening, to reduce the risk of infection.
2. Catheter disinfection : Open the packaging of the disposable sterile urinary catheter, use sterile tweezers to pick up the catheter, and disinfect the tip of the catheter with a sterile cotton ball soaked in disinfectant.

III. Lubrication Stage

Use a lubricant (such as sterile paraffin oil or a water-based lubricant) to lubricate the tip of the catheter to reduce friction and discomfort during insertion. Note that for latex catheters, avoid using lubricants containing petroleum-based components, as these may damage the catheter.

IV. Catheter Insertion Stage and Precautions

1. Male patients :

• Precautions : Before insertion, ensure the penis is in a relaxed position and avoid excessive stretching or bending. Also, keep the catheter parallel to the urethral axis to minimize injury.
• Procedure : Gently lift the penis with your left thumb and forefinger, making it perpendicular to your body. Hold the tip of the catheter with hemostatic forceps in your right hand and slowly insert it into the urethra until the tip of the catheter enters the bladder. During insertion, keep the catheter parallel to the axis of the urethra and closely observe the patient’s response and urine flow.

1. Female patients :

• Precautions : Before insertion, ensure the labia minora are fully separated to expose the urethral opening. Also, keep the catheter parallel to the urethral axis and avoid damaging the vaginal wall.
• Procedure : Gently separate the labia minora with your left thumb and forefinger to expose the urethral opening. Hold the tip of the catheter with hemostatic forceps in your right hand and slowly insert it into the urethra until the tip of the catheter enters the bladder. Again, maintain the catheter parallel to the urethral axis and closely observe the patient’s response and urine flow.

V. Balloon Inflation and Fixation Stage

1. Inject normal saline into the urinary catheter balloon : Use a syringe to inject an appropriate amount of normal saline (usually 10-30 ml) into the urinary catheter balloon until the balloon is inflated.
2. Gently pull on the catheter to confirm it is secure : Gently pull the catheter outwards; if you feel resistance, you are sure it is securely in place. At this point, the balloon of the catheter should be fully inflated and pressed tightly against the bladder wall to prevent the catheter from dislodging.

VI. Connecting the urine bag to the drainage

1. Connect the urine bag : Connect the other end of the catheter to the urine bag, ensuring a tight connection to prevent urine leakage.
2. Secure the urine bag : Use a drainage bag holder to secure the urine bag to the bedside or a suitable location to ensure unobstructed urine drainage and patient comfort.

VII. Follow-up Nursing Care and Observation

1. Keep the area clean : Change the urine bag regularly to ensure proper and clean urine drainage. Also, keep the perineal area dry and clean to reduce the risk of infection.
2. Observe your urine : Closely monitor the color, amount, and characteristics of your urine. If you notice any cloudy urine, bleeding, or unusual odor, report it to your doctor immediately for treatment.
3. Regular assessment : Regularly assess the patient’s urination status and the condition of the catheter. If necessary, replace the catheter with a new one under the guidance of a doctor.
4. Patient education : Explain the usage and precautions of the urinary catheter to the patient and their family so that they can better cooperate with treatment and care.
5. Pain and discomfort : If the patient experiences pain or discomfort during insertion, the procedure should be stopped immediately, and the patient should be checked for injury or improper technique. If necessary, appropriate analgesics may be administered or the insertion method may be readjusted.
6. Aseptic technique : Aseptic technique should be strictly followed throughout the insertion process to avoid cross-infection and bacterial growth.

In conclusion, catheterization is a medical procedure that requires meticulous operation and strict adherence to aseptic principles. By ensuring adequate preparation, disinfection, lubrication, insertion, fixation, and follow-up care, and by paying attention to various details and precautions during the insertion process, the safety and effectiveness of catheterization can be ensured, providing patients with the best urination solution.